✅ Operating principle of a Karcher car wash

How do Karcher mini-washers work?

Anyone who has ever used a mini-wash knows how it can be quite a fun activity. They can clean almost any surface around the house and it won’t take much time. But how does a high-pressure apparatus work? How does it work and what is the principle of its operation? Let's look at the mini-wash from the inside and take a trip to the Kärcher Plant in Obersontheim, where the Kärcher K 7 Full Control mini-wash is assembled.

How to use the mini-wash

To ensure your washer works properly, follow these recommendations.

Be sure to check the operation of the washer before you start using it, this will save your time and health.
Clean and change the filter installed in the car wash after each use.
If the washer uses electricity to operate and the source is unstable, provide it with a battery.
Do not let children use the sink.
If repairs are necessary, do not hesitate to carry them out. Replace damaged sink components.
Update the device gaskets.
Protect your sink from temperature changes.

We invite you to familiarize yourself with Which cookware is suitable for glass-ceramic and induction hobs?

How does a high pressure washer work?

An animation graph will show the operating principle of the Kärcher K 7 Full Control mini washer. It shows where the motor is located, where the water flows as soon as it enters the device from a garden hose, and how high pressure is created.

Example: ADV Karcher K 7 Full Control

The heart of each device is an electric motor that drives a pump [1] . In order for the pressure system to work correctly, water is needed, which is supplied using a garden hose [2] . Before the water passes through the valves to start coming out under pressure, it will pass through a double circuit around the motor and cool it [3] . This significantly reduces operating noise and extends the service life of the device.

The motor drives the oblique washer, which in turn drives 3 pistons that move up and down [4] . The K 7 Full Control high-pressure cleaner has a total of 3 pistons, each of which works to extract and supply water. The downward movement of the piston [6] draws water through the suction valve [5] and supplies it to the piston chamber cylinder. When the piston moves up it pushes water through the pressure valve [7] to the injector.

The cleaning agent [10] is supplied to the injector [8] if necessary. The water then passes through the pump [9] to the high pressure gun.

Of course, in real time, all this happens so quickly that as soon as you turn on the device, you can immediately pull the trigger to start cleaning. The mini washer shown in the picture is also equipped with an LED display on the high-pressure gun, which shows the selected pressure level, as well as an example of the application of this pressure. This allows you to correctly find the operating mode of the device in which the best cleaning result will be achieved.

Not to mention the incredible cleaning results that are achieved with the help of a pressure washer, you can save on drinking water, because when washing with a regular garden hose, about 3,500 liters of water will be spent per chat, while a high-pressure washer will use from 400 to 600 liters. The saving effect is achieved precisely due to the fact that high pressure speeds up the cleaning process.

Operating principle of Karcher Full Control series mini washers

Karcher cleaning agent [10]

A cleaning agent is necessary to easily remove dirt from any surface.

High pressure outlet [9]

Under high pressure, a stream of water flows from the outlet hose into the high-pressure gun, and from the gun onto the surface being treated. I would like to remind you that in the new series of Full Control mini-washes, the guns have touch-sensitive operating mode switches, which greatly simplifies the operation of the mini-wash.

Piston (engineer) [8]

In the injector, water supplied under pressure is mixed with Karcher detergent and supplied to the outlet hose.

Pistons and valves

The system consists of three pistons, each of which works progressively, creating pressure in the pump. After which a stream of water under high pressure is supplied to the outlet.

Piston [6]

The piston moves downward in a translational motion, thereby sucking in liquid and interacts with the suction valve [5] , which creates pressure in the piston chamber, releasing a powerful stream of high-pressure water into the injector.

Pressure relief valve [7]

The pressure relief valve is needed to regulate and maintain smooth operation of the system.

Bearings [4]

Bearings transfer the rotational energy of the engine into translational mechanical work of pistons and valves.

Water cooling system [3]

The water cooling system used in Karcher devices protects the electric motor from overheating, which ensures its reliable and durable operation. Karcher, first of all, is German quality and reliability.

Water flow [2]

Input element for supplying water to the mini-wash. Typically, liquid is supplied by connecting a garden hose, but if there is no tap or other source of liquid supply under pressure, in Kärcher Full Control series mini-washes it is possible to draw liquid from a canister, bucket, or other container.

Electric motor [1]

An electric motor is an element of a mini-wash that drives the Karcher mini-wash pump by converting electrical energy into mechanical energy.

Mid-level mini-washers (classes k4, k5)

The middle class of mini-washers K4, K5 provide the consumer with more functionality:

Water intake not only from the water supply, but also from stationary open sources (bucket, barrel, pool).
The maximum pressure rises to 145 atm.
An additional set of accessories included in the package compared to the initial class.

Also in this class, a water engine cooling system is installed, which increases the continuous operation time and durability of the equipment.

Main characteristics of middle-class mini-washers:

consumption capacity (maximum) – up to 500 l/hour;
productivity in terms of processing surface area (maximum) – up to 40 m2/hour;
power consumption – 2.1 kW;
weight (without accessories) – no more than 13.8 kg.

The advantages of the middle class are achieved due to a higher price, increased size and weight of the equipment.

Operating principle of Karcher mini washers

We tried the water. We tried soap. We tried rubbing and scraping. We have tried strong chemicals that do not meet the stated requirements. So when will it be clean?

Discover Karher pressure washers! Nowadays it is difficult to find a person who does not know about Karcher mini-washers. And many of them have already tried this useful invention. Super-powerful hose, a powerful stream of water under pressure approximately 100-200 times higher than the air pressure around us. Now everything shines: courtyards, cars, country furniture, barbecues and everything that can be cleaned of dirt. Let's now take a closer look at how they work!

Why does pressurized jet make things cleaner?

Let's start with the fact that water itself copes well with pollution, and there is a good scientific reason for this. Its molecules have a slight electrical polarity (one end is positively charged and the other negatively charged), so they tend to be attracted to things on their own.

Detergents (soaps, chemicals) help water do its job even better by breaking down oil and fat molecules. But some types of stains just won't budge, no matter how hard you try. Then a high-pressure apparatus will come to the rescue. It uses a narrow stream of high pressure hot or cold water to break down the structure of the dirt. Because water moves quickly, it hits the dirty surface with high kinetic energy, hitting the dirt and dust like thousands of tiny hammer blows.

Premium mini-washers k7

The highest level K7 is an almost semi-professional mini-wash with even wider capabilities than in the previous class.

In addition to increasing the maximum pressure level to 160 atm.

and thereby obtaining higher productivity, washes at this level are equipped with pressure control systems directly on the gun handle and a “start-stop” system that automatically turns off the engine if necessary. In addition, the delivery package of such sinks includes a rich set of accessories.

Main characteristics of K7 class high-pressure mini washers:

consumption capacity (maximum) – up to 600 l/hour;
productivity in terms of processing surface area (maximum) – up to 60 m2/hour;
power consumption – 3 kW;
weight (without accessories) – no more than 22.3 kg.

The manufacturer also includes mini-washes with a gasoline engine in the K7 class.

It should be especially noted the need to comply with safety rules (set out in the instructions) when operating high-pressure washers: the edge of the high-pressure jet in a certain position is akin to a sharp cutting tool.

Components of a Karcher high-pressure apparatus.

A high-pressure apparatus is simpler than you imagine when you hear its name. This is a water pump that is powered by an electric motor. The machine draws water from a regular tap, a pump accelerates the water under high pressure, and then injects it from a hose at speed through a hand-held spray gun. You can attach various accessories to the end of the hose to clean different things.

Petrol engine washers. Although pressure washers typically run on electricity, the larger ones are often powered by small gasoline engines. This allows the washers to operate autonomously, without being connected to power grids.

Now the main parts that you will find inside the pressure washer:

Water Pump: This is the heart of the pressure washer. It is driven at high speed by an electric (or gasoline) motor. The pump draws water from the faucet and pushes it out into another path under high pressure, creating the powerful stream we are familiar with. The pumps are designed to handle a water flow of approximately (4-8 liters) per minute.

It should be noted that the pump material depends on the series of your mini washer:

Starting from K2, K3, K4, a plastic composite is used.

In sinks of a higher class K5, K7 - silumin (an alloy of aluminum with silicon) pumps.

Preliminary preparation for washing

Before starting work, you should understand exactly how to properly wash your car with Karcher. Although the equipment seems extremely simple, because it is designed to supply water under pressure, there are some nuances here.

First you need to choose the right place before using Karcher. This equipment is directly dependent on electricity and a water source. Therefore, there must be an outlet and water nearby. Plus, do not forget about the rules of car washing, where the presence of a drain is required. Although this rule is often ignored by motorists.

It is not recommended to use mini-washes that connect to the car's cigarette lighter. They are not capable of creating really high pressure, and therefore will not be able to significantly help in cleaning the vehicle. It is better to take those that connect to a 220V outlet.

It is equally important to use the right detergent. It’s definitely not worth taking a container of dishwashing detergent from your wife’s kitchen. The use of such liquids can lead to ambiguous consequences.

For mini-washes with a foam generator, there are special washing liquids, mainly intended as a concentrate. They should be added in small quantities inside a special container with water, where the formation of the foam itself will occur. When purchasing car shampoo for Karcher, be sure to read the instructions for use from the manufacturer. Only this guide is considered the most correct. You should not use any universal advice that does not coincide with the manufacturer’s recommendations. Everyone has their own subtleties when diluting car shampoo before subsequent use in Karcher.

A complete wash is carried out in several stages:

connection,
applying foam,
rinsing,
fine-tuning

Each stage deserves separate attention and consideration.

Connection

The first thing you need to understand is how to properly connect your Karcher so that water flows to the hose and the connection does not suddenly break during the process of washing the car.

The best decision for the owner of Kercher car wash equipment will be to study the instructions that come with the mini-wash. After reading the manual, you can easily figure out what, where and how to connect. Do not forget that Karcher models are different, and therefore the connection process may be slightly different.

In fact, connecting equipment components looks extremely simple, despite the wide functionality of the device.

mini-wash includes a stationary or mobile unit,
this block is connected to the supply hose and to the supply hose, which discharges water and foam to the gun,
First you need to connect the equipment to an accessible source of water,
Karcher receives water from a water tap or container, depending on the washing model and circumstances,
when the water hose is connected to the mini-wash, you can connect to a 220V power supply,
The sink comes with a corresponding power cable,
All you have to do is press the equipment activation button and get to work.

Once turned on, the pump begins to pump water and create high pressure before supplying it to the gun. Just do not forget that the power of the built-in pump is not enough to draw water from a deep well. The pump is capable of lifting water up to a maximum of 0.5 m. If you have a well, then it is better to first pump water into a large container, and then supply liquid from it to the mini-wash.

You can clearly see for yourself that there is nothing complicated about the connection. But it will be better if you read the manufacturer's instruction manual. Since Karcher is officially represented in Russia, all instructions are necessarily duplicated in Russian. Everything is written there simply and extremely clearly. It will not be difficult for a beginner to understand the nuances of connecting hoses and connecting to sources of water and electricity.

Once you understand how to properly connect your Karcher washer to the water supply and electrical network, you can proceed directly to cleaning your car.

Foam application

If you want to really thoroughly clean your car, then it's worth taking advantage of the foam generator capabilities on Karcher.

Let's figure out how to properly and independently wash your car with Karcher.

Shampoo. There should be no problems with how to pour shampoo into Karcher. For this purpose, a corresponding hole is provided in the foam generator. But when pouring shampoo there, maintain the correct proportions. Otherwise, the foam will be too strong or not active enough. Much depends on the shampoo itself. Use as much as the manufacturer recommends filling. The proportions established by the manufacturer must not be violated.
Turn on the foam generator. Foam forms instantly and begins to flow through the hose to the gun. The regulator sets the optimal mode, size and force of the jet. The foam should be evenly distributed over the entire surface.
In general, foam is used on top of a dry body, but some motorists recommend simply rinsing the surface with plain water first. This is true if it is very hot outside. Then it won’t hurt to really bring down the temperature of the body with clean water. In other situations, you can immediately start washing by supplying foam. It’s just that the foam will not immediately slide down on a dry surface. Therefore, it will more effectively dissolve all the dirt.
It is recommended to apply foam in a horizontal direction, moving from bottom to top. This will allow you to use shampoo more efficiently. Dirt accumulates in greater quantities in the lower part. Therefore, the main attention should be paid to the most contaminated areas of the car.
If you started washing as soon as you arrived home or stopped near the garage, start washing from the center of the car. Since the engine is still hot, it needs time to cool down.

All about Karcher mini-washers - types, configurations and choice of device

Every car owner knows that keeping your car clean is not a whim, but a necessity. An easy way to clean your car is to use a professional stationary car wash. But using the service regularly is expensive.

Another common option is to wash the vehicle yourself using shampoo and a hose. In words it is convenient and cheap, but the process is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and the result is not brilliant. The third option, which combines the advantages of the previous two, is purchasing a high-pressure washer. Car enthusiasts use Karcher to wash their cars.

Principle of operation

A stream of water washes away contaminants: the dirt cannot withstand the pressure and is destroyed, while at the same time the flow removes small particles. Technically, the cleaning process is a little more complicated; To understand the nuances, it is worth understanding the design of the device. Its components:

electric motor – power source;
pump – provides the necessary pressure to the washer;
an automatic device that turns off the engine and prevents overheating;
hose, installed on a water supply or to an open container;
gun with pressure hose;
frame;
nozzle;
connection cable.

The fluid pressure in the pump increases, and water flows to the gun handle. When you press the button on the handle, the liquid sprays out. This non-contact cleaning minimizes the possibility of damage to the paintwork. When a car owner washes the car himself with a sponge or rag, dirt particles scratch the paintwork. Karcher sink eliminates this.

Often the Karcher mini washer is equipped with functional attachments. The best results are provided by detergents, such as special shampoo.

Advantages and disadvantages

Some advantages of the Karcher sink have already been mentioned above. Its key advantages:

Washing with Karcher saves time and water consumption.
This method is the least dangerous for the car, and the paintwork protects it.
The operating instructions will help to prolong the operation of the device as much as possible; a long warranty is often included, for example, Karcher devices have a warranty of up to two years.
The device is multifunctional. In addition to cars, it washes roofs, building facades, terraces, swimming pools, garden paths.

Despite the many advantages, there are a number of serious disadvantages:

Car wash pumps fail due to careless operation.
Karcher is a rather dangerous device. A pressurized jet can break car windows or mirrors and even injure a person. Therefore, before you start working with the mini-wash, you need to carefully study the manual.

The high cost of washing cannot be considered a disadvantage of Karcher. The device pays for itself within 1 year.

Questions about repairs and spare parts

How is Kärcher equipment repaired?

Repair work is carried out by Kärcher at fixed prices.

Benefits for the client:

Convenient, free for the client delivery of equipment for repair and its return
Fast repairs
No repair estimate required
One-year warranty on repairs
Honest, pre-known prices

In what cases can warranty claims be made?

Kärcher provides private purchasers of household products with a 2-year warranty starting from the date of purchase. The warranty covers any malfunctions caused by defects in materials of construction and manufacturing defects. To confirm the availability of warranty obligations, you must present a receipt (receipt) for the purchase.

Please note that the warranty becomes void if:

the device was not used for its intended purpose (for example, in the case of using household appliances for commercial purposes);
The device was opened in order to carry out repairs on its own.

How is warranty repair carried out?

Kärcher provides a 2-year warranty covering faults caused by defects in materials and workmanship, provided that the product is used for its intended purpose.

Based on the information about the device and the document you attached (for example, a receipt), our specialists will check the possibility of performing warranty repairs or the presence of other grounds for free troubleshooting. Please take into account our warranty conditions - see the answer to the question "In what cases can a warranty claim be made?"

Where can I buy spare parts?

All spare parts listed on the last page of the operating instructions can be ordered from our sales partners.

For safety reasons, replacement of other parts and assemblies should only be carried out by specialists from our service partners who have undergone special training. They have access to complete lists of spare parts and can advise you.

If you would like to replace a part listed in the instruction manual under warranty, please send us an email with a brief description of the problem and a copy of your proof of purchase. We will check whether such replacement is covered by warranty.

This is what the main components of a modern high-pressure washer look like. Of course, there is also a power cable that needs to be protected from the action of water and various “bells and whistles” such as nozzles for changing the type of jet, but there is no point in describing them, you’ll figure it out yourself! There will be a little zest for you.

Classification

Mini car wash involves a number of models, divided into classes:

Karcher entry level car wash. It is characterized by low cost, light body, small size. Suitable for those who do not plan to clean their car often.
A middle-class high-pressure Karcher with water intake from a tank is the best choice for owners of 2-3 cars.
Mini-wash of the highest class. It is considered a semi-professional unit, capable of quickly cleaning dirt from large surfaces.

Primary class

power from 1.3 to 1.5 kW;
unit productivity from 330 to 410 l;
pressure does not exceed 140 bar.

The jet pressure is weak even when connected to a water supply. When drawing from an open source, the pressure is reduced to a minimum, which negatively affects the quality of cleaning;
Suitable only for washing small cars.

It is recommended to operate an entry-level Karcher for no longer than 30-40 minutes, no more than 2 times a day, with intervals between switching on of 6-8 hours.

Among the advantages of the equipment:

compactness;
ease;
budget;
long service life if instructions are strictly followed.

The class models are varied. The body has a built-in compartment for chemical detergents, nozzles: mud and jet. The pump is made from polymer. Cost from 4000 to 8000 rubles.

Middle class

Features of middle class sinks:

power reaches from 1.7 to 2.1 kW;
productivity up to 420-510 l;
pressure - 120-145 bar.

The pump is made of aluminum, which increases its durability. Such Karcher car washes have high performance, so they are recommended to be purchased by owners of 2 cars.

The middle class device is equipped with a tank or injector for detergent. There is a water cooling function for the electric motor. As an additional advantage, they note the possibility of using a mini-wash to clean the facade of the house and paths.

it is necessary to purchase additional accessories: hose nozzles with a return valve, filters;
there is a possibility of the motor overheating when water is completely pumped out of the container;
high price;
small set of equipment.

The model base is widely represented. You can find a car wash with a gasoline engine that does not depend on the network. The set includes two nozzles. Equipment costs from 15,000 to 30,000 rubles.

Top class

Technical parameters of various class models:

high power of the unit - 2.5-3 kW;
productivity reaches 600 liters per hour;
pressure from 150 to 160 bar.

Selection criteria when purchasing a mini washer

If the brand is determined, then in order to buy a Karcher high-pressure washer, you need to formulate the main selection criteria. These include:

purchase budget;
frequency of equipment use;
availability of a source of water supply under pressure;
the presence of impurities and contaminants in the water (the need for filtration).

In our opinion, choosing a mini-wash model should be based on the following considerations:

If you are considering a country use option (no more than 5-6 months a year) for washing one compact class car and if there is a source of water supply under pressure (the water itself must be free of foreign impurities) and the budget to buy a Karcher is limited, then the K2 model is suitable .
If the mini-wash is designed to be used for 2-3 cars in a family, is used constantly and there is a need to draw water from open tanks, then it is advisable to purchase a model from the K5 class.
If a car enthusiast is willing to pay for additional options and ease of use of the equipment: pressure regulation from a gun and display of the adjustment result on a liquid crystal display, an energy-saving start-stop function, an expanded set of accessories and accessories, then you can consider purchasing a model from the K7 class.

We suggest you familiarize yourself with How to clean an aluminum pan inside and outside at home: how to clean it from carbon deposits until it shines, what to wash it with

In any case, it is worth remembering that the stingy pays twice. Therefore, we advise you to be responsible when choosing a mini-wash and carefully weigh all the Pros and Cons before purchasing it, and not after.

Specifications

Technical parameters that are relied upon when choosing Karcher:

Pressure. A pressure of 130 bar is considered sufficient for the operation of the units; the force of the jet depends on this indicator.
Performance. The parameter shows how much water the washers consume per hour or per minute. Country specimens consume from 10 liters of liquid per minute.
Pump power. The optimal power of the Karcher engine is from 2 kilowatts.

Other characteristics that influence the choice of mini-wash:

Equipment. The standard set for any Karcher class includes a pair of nozzles and oil for washing.
Filters. There are two options: a replaceable (disposable) filter and a filter designed for repeated use. Last option
The karcher car wash may have a composite engine. Such models are more expensive, but are cost-effective over long-term use. If the pump breaks down, you only need to replace the faulty part, which will seriously save money. These devices are considered in demand for professional car washes.
The type of electric motor cooling – air – is less efficient compared to water.
Length of pressure hose.
Water intake. It is important to see a specific figure from what depth liquid can be drawn from the tank.

The cost of the Kärcher K2 engine reaches 70% of the price of the device.

Equipment

Production equipment of the Karcher sink:

high pressure apparatus;
hose;
pistol grip;
union;
pressure regulating nozzle.

Depending on the models, the Karcher kit can be supplemented with a dirt cutter and a cleaning container - a tank for cleaning agents. Car washing machines are equipped with a built-in mesh filter.

Some consumers complain that the standard configuration of the mini-wash is not enough, and the add-ons are unreasonably expensive. How to choose Karcher for car washing correctly and quickly? You should pay attention to the number of devices that increase its functionality:

a special brush for foam cleaning, which increases washing efficiency;
various accessories for the hose and hooks for storing it or for fixing the cable. Such details will allow you to vary the size of the hose and solve the storage problem;
detergent spray gun;
chemicals for car washing.

It is recommended to take into account that the Karcher equipment may be a marketing ploy. Parameters and averages: power 2 kilowatts, pressure 130 bar, water flow 500 liters per hour - the decisive factors of choice.

How to choose Karcher

Decide on the washing class. If you have one small car and you are not going to clean it more than once a week, there is no point in choosing obviously expensive car washes with additional functionality. A low-class Karcher with a capacity of 360 liters per hour will be sufficient.
It’s not a problem if the Karcher mini-wash kit does not include a water supply hose. Can be replaced with a garden hose of convenient length and flexibility.
A filter for fine water purification would be useful. In its absence, dirt particles and small pebbles get into the sink, which quickly wears out the pump.
Pay attention to where and how the detergent reservoir is located. A Karcher household plastic sink with a shampoo container attached to the body is less convenient than one where the chemical tank is located in the body.

Don't forget about filtering

Often, a hydraulic cleaning device is connected to a source of industrial water.

This means that the liquid may contain various impurities.

The use of such water can lead to malfunction and failure of the washing unit.

To prevent negative consequences, it is recommended to add another element to the hydraulic cleaning device - a filter.

It should be installed in front of the hose connected to the inlet pipe.

And in special cases, experts recommend installing a coarse filter, followed by a second one for fine cleaning.

Peculiarities

The Karcher car wash is a small-sized hand-held electrical appliance with a high-pressure pump, designed for self-washing cars. The unit is produced by the company of the same name, created in 1935 by the young German designer Alfred Karcher, which specialized in the production of heating equipment. However, already in 1950 the company produced the first high-pressure washer in Europe with a water heating function. Since 1974, the company has completely concentrated on the production of washing machines and changed their colors from blue to the world famous yellow , and since 1980, the plant has significantly expanded its range of equipment and entered the world market with it.

However, Karcher car washes became available to domestic consumers relatively recently - in the early 2000s.

It was at this time that the company launched a line of heavy-duty washing equipment capable of not only washing vehicles, but also renovating house facades and performing dry cleaning. Karcher washes immediately gained great popularity among car enthusiasts and took their rightful place in the Russian market.

High consumer demand and a large number of positive reviews of Karcher products are due to a number of important advantages of this technology.

Compared to a stationary car wash, a mobile unit significantly saves the car owner’s time. Now, in order to get your car in order, you don’t need to go to a car wash station and wait your turn. Washing a car can be done directly in the garage, providing for the timely disposal of waste liquid into the storm drain.
The manual method of washing is considered less “traumatic” for the car, and prevents scratches on the paintwork.
All Karcher products are provided with a warranty of up to two years, according to which in the event of a malfunction, which, however, happens extremely rarely, the unit will be repaired free of charge at any service center.
The devices are quite multifunctional and are not limited to washing cars. With their help, you can clean the facade of a building, terrace, swimming pool and garden alley from dirt.

However, along with the obvious advantages, sinks still have disadvantages. These include the high cost of some samples and the need for strict adherence to safety measures when using the unit. The latter requirement is due to the fact that high-pressure washers are quite dangerous devices, and if used carelessly, they can easily break glass or injure a person.

What it is

First you need to understand what Karcher is. This is special portable equipment designed for washing cars, various equipment, structures, etc. That is, the sink can be used equally effectively when cleaning a car and the same facade of a private house.

Although Karcher is popular precisely because of its ability to quickly and effectively remove dirt from a car.

The equipment is based on a high pressure washer. Water is supplied under pressure, acts on the surface, and thereby rids the car of dirt. Moreover, the jet is capable of knocking down even stubborn dirt accumulated in hard-to-reach places. It is a mistake to think that Karcher copes exclusively with superficial and minor stains.

It is worth studying in more detail the principle by which the equipment operates:

Water that comes directly from the water supply or from a special container passes through purification filters and then goes to the inlet of the high-pressure pump.
If the sink has a heating model, water also flows through the heating elements.
Going through the stages of preliminary preparation, water comes out of the hose under a given pressure.
The gun at the end of the hose is equipped with appropriate regulators, a switch and a nozzle. With their help, you can form a jet with the desired parameters.
Modern Karchers use special foam generators. They make contactless washing even more efficient and of high quality.
Due to the operation of the foam generator, the detergent is converted into foam, which just needs to be distributed over the surface of the car.
The foam reacts with dirt, after which it is easy to remove with a regular stream of water.
Karcher switches to water supply mode, thereby washing away any remaining dirt and foam.

The manufacturer produces different models with different configurations. Therefore, the capabilities of equipment for contactless washing largely depend on additional equipment.

In practice, one Karcher device replaces buckets of water, sponges, various rags and brushes. Plus, this type of washing saves a lot of time.

A contactless car wash has a number of objective advantages. Namely:

rapid removal of contaminants,
the ability of the equipment to cope with stubborn dirt,
efficient work in hard-to-reach places,
protection against scratches and other damage to the paintwork,
wide selection of additional equipment,
impressive range of models,
saving time and effort on vehicle maintenance.

This mini-wash is intended for personal use. But the company’s product range includes powerful, high-performance models, which can often be found at specialized car washes.

Conventionally, Karcher’s work is divided into two modes. This is the usual knocking down of dust and dirt, as well as the use of a foam generator, which forms effective foam from the detergent. The second mode is intended for more severe pollution.

If this is your first time using a mini-wash, it is recommended to start with the normal mode. Having gained the necessary experience and finally understood the nuances of operation, you can easily use a foam generator and efficiently remove all dirt from your car in a short time.

Design and principle of operation

Karcher manual high-pressure washers consist of an electric motor, a pump, a flexible hose system and additional equipment.

The electric motor of all models of washing equipment is equipped with a water cooling system, which prevents its overheating that occurs due to heavy loads and increases its service life. Such motors operate much longer than their counterparts equipped with an air cooling system and show higher performance. Most models have engines with a power of 1.4 to 2.5 kW, but there are also stronger models with a power of 3 kW. In addition to electric models, the company also produces autonomous devices. They do not depend on electrical power sources, having, instead of an electric motor, an internal combustion engine.

Such models are completely energy independent and can be used in places where electricity is not available.

The pump is one of the most important components of a car wash and is responsible for the uninterrupted supply of water. Pumping units of household units are made of plastic or aluminum, which significantly reduces the cost of the devices and reduces their weight. However, such materials are not able to provide long-term continuous operation, and the average permissible time of their operation under load is no more than an hour. Then the device needs to be turned off and rest for a short time. More powerful professional samples are equipped with pump blocks made of stainless steel or brass. Although such devices are much more expensive than household units, they can function without stopping throughout the entire work shift.

A system of flexible hoses ensures the supply of water to the unit and its spraying through a special nozzle. The larger the nozzle diameter, the lower the water pressure, and vice versa.
Additional equipment includes nozzles, jet lances, hose reel, foam sprayer, brushes and pressure-regulating gun. Some units are additionally equipped with a mesh filter.

The principle of operation of Karcher car washes is as follows: the rotating motor shaft drives the swashplate, which, in turn, causes the plungers in contact with it to perform reciprocating movements. The function of a plunger in an electric motor is similar to the function of a piston in an internal combustion engine. At the moment when the plunger goes to the lowest point, water is supplied to the pump through the inlet valve. After the plunger moves to the top point, excess pressure is created and the outlet valve opens synchronously. As a result, a stream of water enters the gun handle and, when the start button is pressed, is sprayed under high pressure. The dirt accumulated on the surface of the car cannot withstand the pressure and is destroyed.

Karcher car washes are classified according to engine power and type of design. Based on the first criterion, three classes of devices are distinguished: entry-level, mid-level and top-level models.

Entry level

Entry-level washers are not designed for intensive use, which is why they are recommended for owners of one car. You can use such devices for no more than 40 minutes twice a day, and the interval between washings should be at least 6-8 hours. This is due to the fact that all models of this level are equipped with plastic pumps, which are significantly inferior in their performance characteristics to pumping systems made of metal. The power of a mini-car wash varies between 1.3-1.6 kW, productivity is 330-410 l/hour.

The water pressure in such models does not exceed 140 bar, the cost ranges from 4,000 to 8,000 rubles.

The advantages of entry-level household machines are their compactness, low cost, durability and light weight. The disadvantages include low water jet pressure and the ability to service only one car.

Middle class

Middle-class models belong to semi-professional washing equipment and represent the largest group of devices. Their power varies from 1.7 to 2.1 kW, operating pressure is 120-145 bar, and productivity reaches 510 l/hour. The pump has an aluminum design, which allows servicing 2-3 cars per day. Units of this class are equipped with a tank for detergents and can be used for washing facades and garden paths. The cost of such devices ranges from 15,000 to 30,000 rubles.

The advantages of middle-class models include their versatility and versatility ; the disadvantages include high cost and somewhat modest basic equipment. Most accessories, such as hose attachments, check valves and filters, must be purchased separately.

High class

High-end sinks belong to the category of professional equipment and can be used in car washes and car depots. The models are equipped with engines with a power of 2.5-3 kW, are capable of consuming up to 600 liters of water per hour and have a pressure pressure of up to 160 bar. The water pump is made of high-strength brass and has its own cooling system. This allows you to continuously operate the equipment for up to several hours a day and use it to service several cars or a bus. Such devices cost from 25,000 to 32,000 rubles.

The advantages of top-class machines include greater power, high productivity , long service life and the ability to cope with complex contaminants. Moreover, many samples are equipped with brushes for contact washing, which allows for high-quality cleaning of the bumper and rims. Among the disadvantages are the large size of the units and their high cost.

Portal automatic car washes

It is also worth highlighting the Karcher portal automatic washers, which are a stationary 3-brush structure, for the manufacture of which steel that has undergone a hot-dip galvanization process is used. Such complexes are designed for a large number of cars and are capable of washing from 300 to 1300 cars per month. Thanks to the presence of large units, the height of which reaches 2.8 m, with the help of Karcher you can wash not only cars, but also minibuses.

In addition, portal structures are equipped with dryers that instantly blow air over a clean body, preventing the appearance of smudges.

How to use Karcher correctly - instructions for use, connection and care

It is difficult to imagine any modern cleaning or washing process without the use of such a convenient and practical device as a high-pressure washer. It is easy to use, affordable, and effective on large surfaces. By purchasing a mini-wash for private use, you get a real assistant who can facilitate any work related to cleaning the house and the surrounding area, cleaning the territory, washing a car, walls, roofs, facades, garden equipment and agricultural implements.

Choosing a mini-wash is a process that requires special scrupulousness and seriousness. It is no secret that German-made Karcher high-pressure washers are the most popular among consumers. They are so popular and widespread that many buyers call any washing unit from another company Karcher. A real Karcher is distinguished by its versatility and reliability. Such a machine is suitable for performing almost any task, so the demand for this equipment is growing every day.

The reason for its popularity is that Karcher specialists were the first in Europe to produce high-pressure washers, and therefore have extensive experience in developing new models. Over decades of productive work, they managed to study this issue thoroughly, introduce several patented technologies, and select ideal materials for the washing mechanism.

How to make the right choice of mini-wash

Karcher has several classes of sinks. Each model has a type designation: – K2, K3, K4, K5, etc. Also on the packaging of each sink there is a diagrammatic illustration of what can be washed with it. The classes differ from each other in performance, power, price, and, most importantly, the material from which the pump is made.

We will help you understand the main types of mini-washes from the renowned German manufacturer in order to find out their features and performance characteristics, because these indicators determine performance and determine their purpose.

There is a common opinion among users that they need to be guided by size. The small one washes small objects, the medium one washes, respectively, medium-sized ones (including a small and not very dirty car). And the big one - everything of size, including trucks and trucks, tractors and combines.

There is a grain of truth in this statement. But it’s better to look not at the size of the washing machine, but at its technical characteristics.

1. Entry-level mini-washers K2 and K3 are characterized by a low price and small body parameters. Their advantage is light weight, ease of storage and transportation. They are compact and fit in the trunk. But they don't wash well. K2 are suitable for garden equipment, benches, borders, bicycles. As a rule, they are purchased for rare and short-term work on occasional cleaning of small areas. K3 will wash both a motorcycle and even a car, but not too dirty. The pressure in such models does not exceed 100-110 bar. Classes K4 and K5 are the most optimal and popular among users. These devices are practical, easy to use, and designed to perform a wide range of tasks. They have a long working life and a durable aluminum pump. The outlet pressure can reach 120-140 bar, it is possible to work with any source of water, it can be connected to a tap or to an artificial reservoir, a water tank, or a barrel. This is the most optimal option for a mini-wash, including high technical characteristics and an affordable price. It is also worth noting that this class is equipped with:

Quick connect system;
forced cooling of mechanisms, which promotes long-term operation;
hoses included, K-4 – 6 m, K-5 – 9 meters.

2. There are also high-class Karcher industrial units K6 and K7. They can work without interruption for cooling, that is, constantly on. This feature is important in large service stations, when washing large areas in enterprises. The speed and performance of such machines are worthy of respect; no other manufacturer can compare with them. The devices are large, heavy, and equipped with wheels for transportation. For a home there is no point in buying such a unit with such power, but for a business it is just right.

What is needed for a quality wash?

In order to choose the right model that will best satisfy your needs, you need to familiarize yourself with the features of each, the range of its operation, the rated power and the capabilities that it provides to the mechanism.

You will be able to use Karcher correctly only when the technical characteristics of the washing unit perfectly match the future volume of work.

The tips located on the box of each unit will help with this - the areas of application of the model that it can cope with are drawn here. Instructions for use of each device are included in the box; you should also read them carefully. The standard package of Kärcher miniwashers has everything necessary for the device to fully operate, but some models do not have a low-pressure hose. Sometimes it can be replaced with a garden hose of a suitable diameter.

The cleaning performance is affected by the material of the piston and pump. Karcher always has a steel piston, and regarding the design of the pump, its material comes in different types:

Fiberglass. The strength is not bad, but it does not tolerate heavy loads. Installed in the lowest class, K2 and K3.
Die-cast aluminum. Surprisingly durable and light at the same time. Does not rust. Resistant to deformation and loads. Used in classes K4, K5.
Brass alloy. Combination of copper and inca. It is considered an “eternal” material that does not change its appearance for decades.

High-quality washing is also determined by the detergent; it must be special, designed for high-pressure washing.

Washing stages

The first stage of working with a mini-wash in a home or industrial environment is to clearly determine the source of water: a stationary water supply or a prepared container.

Connecting a Karcher sink to a water supply is the most popular method of using it. To enable it you need:

You need to attach a filter and fitting to the supply pipe. A filter is not a prerequisite, but water, even from a tap, is never absolutely clean. Therefore, it is better to protect the unit from damage.
Using an adapter, attach the hose. Ideally, the adapter should be quick-clamping, keyless, and even with an aqua-stop to stop the reverse flow of water.
On the other side, the hose is connected to a water tap. Here’s a simple way to connect to a centralized water supply. Before connecting the Karcher to a barrel or natural source, we do the same thing, only we hook the hose not to the tap, but lower it into a container. And we suck it in a little (like gasoline from a canister). It is very convenient when an outlet with a fitting is cut into a barrel or tank. Then the hose can be attached to it.
We check the clutch points, the possibility of water leakage and troubleshoot problems
Apply detergent to the contaminated surface. To carry out a touchless wash, detergent is applied to dry dirt.
After rinsing, the surface should be wiped if necessary.
It is worth noting that when using contaminated water, it is still necessary to resort to the use of special filters to purify the liquid. If we pull from a barrel, then the filter must also have a check valve (so that water does not leak out).

Common mistakes when washing a car

When washing a car, mistakes are often made due to a careless attitude to the technology of applying shampoo (it is applied from the bottom up).
Also, first the car is watered. This is wrong; shampoo drips from wet dirt, bringing no benefit.
Errors in using nozzles are also common. The mud cutter is only for wheels, not for the car body. It can cause scratches.
For some reason, some users confuse a mini washer with a pump. They lower the intake hose far into a pond or deep well, and sincerely wonder why the water does not flow. But a sink can pull water from a depth of a meter or two, no more. That is, the container with water should be at the same level as it, or slightly lower.

Dishwashing liquid, washing powder—what car enthusiasts don’t use to wash their cars. Remember, anything like this speeds up the breakdown of the unit, and the car will be dirty and streaky. Only chemicals for high pressure washing.

Expert advice

User errors are quite common, but they can be avoided by studying the advice of experienced professionals.

It is advisable to wash the car step by step, from below. First one edge, then the other, leaving the roof and hood for the end.
It is advisable to rinse off the detergent in the order in which it was applied - from bottom to top.
If you don't follow these tips, you can create streaks on the surface of your car and leave a lot of dirt in hard-to-reach places.
Be sure to use a filter. If it becomes clogged, it is easy to replace, and a damaged mini-wash costs incomparably more.
The washing hose from the water tap does not have to be pulled through an open window or door; you can make a hole under the window sill.
The most convenient way to turn it on is to pump water directly into the barrel. And ahead of time, insert a fitting with a control valve into this very barrel, and then connect the Karcher from it.
It is convenient to buy chemicals for washing cars in special liter bottles; in some models of mini washes they are integrated into the overall design and can be changed with one click.

conclusions

The Karcher mini-wash is an excellent device for cleaning and washing cars, sidewalks and carpets. It is powerful, functional and convenient; its compact dimensions contribute to versatility of use and increase the comfort of storage. Many years of experience in developing devices of this type have allowed us to achieve high quality and reliability. This is why Karcher devices are the best high-pressure washers on the market today. Proper care of the Karcher mini washer and compliance with the connection rules will extend its operating time.

The lineup

The range of Karcher mini-washes is represented by electric models of three power classes, autonomous models powered by an internal combustion engine, and automatic portal washers.

The Karcher K3 model is an entry-level device and is equipped with a 1.6 kW electric motor. The unit is capable of passing through itself up to 380 l/hour, processing up to 25 m2 of surface during this time. The working pressure can be adjusted from 20 to 120 bar (2-12 MPa), the water temperature at the outlet of the nozzle reaches 40 degrees. The current frequency is 50-60 Hz, the weight of the device is 5.8 kg, the dimensions of length, width and height are 27.5x27.9x80.3 cm, respectively. The model is equipped with a Quick-Connect device, with which a 6-meter hose is connected to the unit with one movement of the hand, as well as mud cutters and a Vario-Power jet lance, which allows you to regulate the working pressure. Price 6,990 rubles.